Key Takeaways:
• The Lion King, released in 1994, is considered one of the most iconic animated feature films.
• Rowan Atkinson, who voiced Zazu, initially rejected the role.
• It was co-writer and actor, Robin Driscoll, who convinced Atkinson to attempt voice acting.
• Atkinson was eventually glad he accepted the role, unaware of the film’s impending success.
• Jon Favreau’s 2019 remake of The Lion King brought back James Earl Jones who voiced the character, Mufasa, in the 1994 original.
A Journey Back to ‘The Lion King’
‘The Lion King,’ the 1994 animated feature film, is arguably one of the most iconic movies in the genre. This heartwarming tale of a father-son legacy has kept generations of viewers enchanted. Among the notable performances by veteran stars, the voice of Rowan Atkinson, renowned for his role as Mr. Bean, truly brought the character Zazu to life.
A Surprising Revelation from Rowan Atkinson
What fans may find surprising is that Rowan Atkinson initially declined the opportunity to voice Zazu. In an interview with People TV’s Couch Surfing, the actor known for his physical comedy admitted he had reservations about voice acting. As a visual artist, Atkinson could not see the appeal of voice roles. However, Robin Driscoll, a co-writer and actor on Mr. Bean, convinced Atkinson to try his hand at voice acting. Reflecting on his decision, Atkinson confessed that he was glad he changed his mind because ‘The Lion King’ became a truly special film.
Favreau’s Brave Decision in Reviving an Evergreen Classic
The risky challenge of rebooting a classic like ‘The Lion King’ didn’t deter director Jon Favreau. His 2019 new interpretation of the animated feature involved an entirely fresh cast. Among new members like Donald Glover as Simba and Beyonce as Nala, one seasoned voice reprised its original role. James Earl Jones, who personified Mufasa in the original, was the only cast member to return in the remake.
Favreau’s Reason for Casting James Earl Jones Again
Favreau saw Jones reprising Mufasa’s role as a way of carrying the character’s legacy forward. The unique depth James Earl Jones brought to Mufasa, which has matured over time, added a beautiful layer to the character in the remake that felt perfect for carrying forward the older Mufasa’s legacy. Audiences worldwide were thrilled to hear the familiar, resonant voice of Jones once again.
As we look back on the two renditions of ‘The Lion King,’ both films offer their unique charm. However, the 1994 original undeniably holds a special place in pop culture, largely due to the unforgettable voice performances from it’s famous cast including Atkinson’s interpretation of Zazu and James Earl Jones’ timeless voice as Mufasa.
Be a part of the nostalgia and revisit the magic of ‘The Lion King’ streaming now on Disney+.
